The Ukraine national ice hockey team is on the verge of major personnel changes. The departure of the coaching duo Dmitry Hristych and Oleh Shafarenko has been officially confirmed, as the leadership of the Ukrainian Hockey Federation (UHF) could not agree on a contract extension. Now, the focus is on finding a new head coach capable of continuing the development of the national team.

Why did the current staff leave?

The reason for the parting was disagreements over financial issues. After the successful return of the team to the World Championship Elite Division, the specialists expected improved working conditions, but no compromise was reached. According to sources close to the UHF leadership, negotiations for a new agreement failed precisely due to financial disagreements.

Despite their departure, the work of Hristych and Shafarenko was marked by significant achievements. Under their leadership, Ukraine returned to Division IA for the first time in seven years, winning five consecutive games at the 2024 World Championship in Division IB with a goal difference of 31:2. At the next tournament, the team secured its spot in the top division, finishing in fourth place. Also, in February 2024, the national team successfully passed the third round of qualification for the 2026 Olympics, taking first place in their group.

Who could become the new head coach?

The UHF has already begun work on forming a new coaching staff. Several names are mentioned as possible candidates, each with their own advantages and risks.

  • Vadim Shakhraiuk — former coach of the Ukraine national team (2021–2023). His return is possible, although the probability is assessed as low.
  • Aleksandr Bobkin — current coach of the U-18 national team. His experience working with youth is a plus, but he also heads the youth team of the Slovak club “Trnava,” which creates logistical difficulties.
  • Latvian specialist — the name is not yet disclosed, but he has experience working with a national team. This could be an important factor in the selection.
  • Aleksandr Godyniuk — scout for the NHL club “Vegas Golden Knights.” Combining two positions is a difficult task, but the UHF believes the issue can be resolved.
  • Foreign coach — the option of inviting a specialist working abroad is being considered, but the probability of this scenario is assessed as low.

What's next?

While a final decision has not yet been made, the process of searching for a new coach has already been launched. It is important that the new coach can maintain the team's development dynamics and continue moving towards high goals — including participation in the Olympic Games and strengthening positions in the World Championship Elite Division.

Recall that it was previously reported that the goalkeeper of the Ukraine national team, Eduard Zakharchenko, was mobilized into the ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This event also became part of the general context of changes in Ukrainian hockey.